More Students Will Impact Reno
The growth of and its student population is beneficial to the city of Reno itself and all of its residents, even if they might roll their eyes when seeing a group partying late or partaking in other actions that could be described as uncouth.
The “college student economy” is a lucrative business that benefits Reno’s local businesses. The historic midtown of Reno boats many interesting spots such as bars, shops, and restaurants. Bars specifically, such as The Wall, Our Bar, The Stick, Imperial etc., are filled with UNR students at really any given day of the week.
Alcohol is not the only thing at attracts students though it is a strong reinforcement. However that does not change the fact that students bring in more business. Restaurants that positioned themselves around campus, such as Aldertos, Laughing Planet, Blind Onion Pizza, and Robertos (open 24 hours for a reason), have become cornerstones of the UNR diet. Food options on campus such as the restaurants in the Joe also heavily reap the benefits of student patronage.
Student run business will also see a probable increase as the campus grows and the student participate for themselves in the local economy. A well-known business started by a UNR student is Reno As Fuck. Simple merchandise with the RAF theme, like stickers and buttons, can be pointed out by any given student and are well known amongst many social circles.
Participation in the local economy by students prove the dedication to the city and add a layer of diversity and creativity to the city of Reno that surely would not have existed without the presence of students. The growing of the University will only bring in more creative ideas to the local economy.
Students not only shape the businesses of Reno, but the cities culture as well. Social activism has begun in Reno. Black Lives Matter demonstrations were held in the Reno/Spark area earlier in the year. Students made up a large portion of the demographics.
The Reno Justice Coalition is also another one of these activist groups that meet regularly on campus. Founded and run by students, the members of this organization promote social justice and activism on the UNR campus. Campuses around the country are centers of social change. A growing number of students are highly likely to impact Reno as a whole in regards to social justice.
